Strategies for Helping Individuals Think Clearly After a Year of Disruption
Even as pandemic restrictions begin to loosen nationwide, some people may continue to struggle with occasional stress or anxiousness, which may cause them to feel less than mentally sharp.
Fortunately, everyday stress can usually be addressed with some basic healthful tips. Pharmacists, as one of the most accessible and trusted members of the health care community, can offer advice to customers who complain of mild, occasional stress.
These include steps to:
- Restore good sleep patterns, including limiting screen time before bed, to ensure your body is well rested.
- Eat a Mediterranean-style diet with beneficial brain-foods such as salmon, avocados, dark leafy greens, and olive oil.
- Get your body moving with aerobic activities that get the blood pumping through both your body and brain.
- Engage in mindfulness activities, such as listening to music and walking in nature, that can help lower stress.
- Socialize with supportive friends and family who can help lighten your mood.
- Avoid alcohol and drugs that can diminish and numb your mental state.
Some experts also recommend activities such as yoga or meditation to relax. Additional mental exercises might include memorizing short grocery lists, followed by adding more items to challenge your recall ability. To build concentration, start by reading headlines and short articles before moving on to longer articles. Reminder apps and online calendars can also help compensate for memory lapses.
